Importance Score: 75 / 100 🔴
New York City Reclaims Title as World’s Richest City
From the iconic skyline of Lower Manhattan to the affluent enclaves of the Upper East Side, New York City has once again asserted its dominance as the richest city globally. A recent report by Henley & Partners, in collaboration with wealth intelligence specialists New World Wealth, reveals that the Big Apple leads the 2025 rankings with an impressive 384,500 millionaires, 818 centi-millionaires (individuals possessing wealth exceeding $100 million), and 66 billionaires. The city has experienced a remarkable 45% expansion in its millionaire demographic over the past year, solidifying its position as not only the wealthiest but also among the fastest-growing epicenters for high-net-worth individuals on the planet.
Global Wealth Ranking: Top Cities
Following New York in the global wealth hierarchy are the San Francisco Bay Area and Tokyo.
European Wealth Hubs
In Europe, London distinguishes itself with 33 billionaires and 215,700 millionaires, closely pursued by Paris, which is home to 22 billionaires and 160,100 millionaires.
Interestingly, London witnessed a 12% contraction in its millionaire population. New York stands as a premier international financial center, boasting over £2.2 trillion in resident-held wealth and serving as a nucleus for key sectors including finance, technology, real estate, fashion, and media.
The city, synonymous with Wall Street and the world’s foremost stock exchanges, held the title of world’s richest city for the preceding 12 years, with the exception of 2021 when Beijing briefly surpassed it.
Insights from Wealth Experts
Dr. Juerg Steffen, CEO of Henley & Partners, commented on the common traits of these leading urban centers, stating, “These urban centers share common DNA — robust legal frameworks, sophisticated financial infrastructure, and perhaps most critically, investment migration programs that welcome global talent and capital.”
He further noted, “Seven of the Top 10 wealthiest cities are located in countries that offer residence by investment programs, establishing direct avenues for entrepreneurs and investors seeking entry to these wealth epicenters.”
Top 10 Wealthiest Cities in the World: 2025 Ranking
- New York City
- San Francisco Bay Area
- Tokyo
- Singapore
- Los Angeles
- London
- Paris
- Hong Kong
- Sydney
- Chicago